+1 what Superman has said.
However, if the building is a Protected Structure, then you will probably need a planning permission for any works as the exempted development schedule may not apply.
Just to flesh this out a little, the exemptions arise under the planning and development legislation, so there is a sort of Grandfather Clause for what existed before the legislation came into force.
"Pre-'63" is a prhase you may still read about in terms of persons making planning applications in Dublin City - a prior use of extended property which is pre-'63 is almost untouchable by the Planning Authority.
Of course, once you start doing work to it, Post-'63, thsi falls under the remit of the planning and development acts.
ONQ.
[broken link removed]
All advice on AAM is remote from the situation and cannot be relied upon as a defence or support - in and of itself - should legal action be taken.
Competent legal and building professionals should be asked to advise in Real Life with rights to inspect and issue reports on the matters at hand.